The surviving umbrella stone at a private property at Chembottikkunnu in Karivellur, among the megalithic monuments to be restored by the Archeology department
| Photo Credit: arranged
The Kerala State Department of Archaeology will undertake a scientific investigation and restoration of seven megalithic umbrella stones at Kozhummal-Peralam in the Karivellur area, with the work expected to begin immediately after Onam. A kudakkal or umbrella stone consists of four upright side slabs or orthostats, supporting a domical capstone. Such distinctive burial monuments are associated with the Megalithic period and are found scattered across Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod district.The prime objective is to restore the umbrella stones, most of which have fallen, by carefully repositioning and conserving them, said K. Krishnaraj, archaeologist and officer-in-charge at the Pazhassi Raja Archaeological Museum under the Kerala State Archaeology department. “Preserving the monument, which offers a window into the ancient history of Karivellur, a region with a significant tradition of peasant struggles, would enable history enthusiasts and students to gain a closer understanding of the past,” he said.The department will also conduct a scientific investigation to examine whether any burial artefacts, particularly pottery, are present beneath the monuments. However, there are no plans for extensive excavation at the site, he told The Hindu. “Seven umbrella stones have been documented at the site. Only one remains standing in its original position, while the others have fallen. Our immediate priority is restoration, along with a scientific investigation,” Mr. Krishnaraj said.
